Sectors

Transforming Urban Landscapes

Innovative designs that enhance biodiversity, improve air quality, and create resilient urban ecosystems.

At Meristem Design, we believe in the power of urban greening to address pressing challenges in our cities, such as biodiversity loss and poor air quality. We work with local authorities to create and maintain green spaces that not only beautify the environment but also provide practical solutions for urban issues like flooding.

By incorporating sustainable drainage systems and innovative design, we aim to transform urban areas into thriving ecosystems that benefit both residents, wildlife and the local environment.

Mitigates Flooding

Innovative features like rain gardens and SuDS planters manage stormwater effectively, reducing the risk of flooding and enhancing climate resilience.

Enhances Biodiversity

Urban green spaces support diverse plant and animal life, contributing to healthier ecosystems and promoting wildlife habitats within cities.

Improves Air Quality

Vegetation helps filter pollutants and carbon dioxide, leading to cleaner air and a healthier environment for residents.

Promotes Community Wellbeing

Green spaces provide recreational areas for relaxation and social interaction, fostering a sense of community and improving mental health.
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Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)

Our SuDS solutions are designed to effectively manage stormwater in urban areas, reducing flooding risks while enhancing the local environment. By incorporating features such as rain gardens and planters, we transform hardscapes into vibrant ecosystems that naturally filter and absorb rainwater.

These solutions not only help prevent surface water flooding but also create aesthetically pleasing spaces that promote biodiversity and improve water quality and quantity.

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Kerbside Strategy

At Meristem Design, we collaborate closely with local authorities to develop comprehensive kerbside strategies that enhance urban spaces. Our approach involves assessing the unique needs of each area, focusing on transforming underutilised kerbside spaces into vibrant and sustainable public spaces.

By integrating innovative features such as sustainable drainage systems and parklets, we create environments that improve air quality, promote safety, and build community engagement. Our goal is to create adaptable, long-lasting solutions that contribute to the overall wellbeing of residents and visitors alike.

Featured products & services

Meristem Design offers planters that serve as effective urban drainage systems, capturing rainwater runoff while enhancing urban green spaces and community appeal. All of our SuDS planters are custom and handmade in our warehouse in Kent.
Our rain gardens absorb 30% more water than lawn grass, prevent pollution, and reduce erosion. Tailored for landscapes, they enhance urban areas and create habitats, making them perfect for local authorities.
Parklets are vibrant extensions of the kerbside that transform parking spaces into green community spaces. Designed with cyclists and pedestrians in mind, these versatile spaces enhance social interaction, encourage active transportation, and boost local economies.
We provide tailored maintenance solutions for all our projects, ensuring thriving, healthy spaces year-round. Our horticultural experts cater to each project’s unique needs, offering one-off or ongoing services that include watering, cleaning, feeding, pruning, and pest control.

Get in touch

If you like what you've seen and want to learn more about how this could work in your setting, please get in touch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does urban greening contribute to combatting climate change?

Urban greening is a potent weapon against the escalating threats of climate change. Green spaces, including trees and vegetation, act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing harmful CO2 emissions. They also combat the urban heat island effect by providing shade and cooling through evapotranspiration. Moreover, green spaces play a role in filtering air pollutants and improving overall air quality. These combined benefits not only make cities more liveable but also contribute to global efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Projects like Richmond Road Pocket Park showcase the transformative power of urban greening, highlighting its crucial role in creating sustainable and resilient urban environments.

What are the benefits of community planting?

Community planting is more than just greening an area: it’s about uniting people for a common cause. When communities come together to plant, they create shared spaces that foster a sense of pride and collective ownership. This not only enhances the beauty and biodiversity of the area but also promotes community bonding and cooperation. Additionally, community planting events are educational, allowing participants to learn more about local flora, sustainable practices, and the importance of urban ecology. Richmond Road Pocket Park exemplifies these benefits, where resident involvement has been instrumental in shaping its success.

Why are pocket parks essential for urban spaces?

In the midst of concrete jungles, pocket parks emerge as vital green oases. They offer urban inhabitants a respite from the hustle and bustle, providing a peaceful space to reconnect with nature. Besides aesthetic appeal, pocket parks are instrumental in combating the adverse effects of urbanisation, like air pollution and heat islands. They also serve as community hubs, fostering social interactions and community events. Richmond Road Pocket Park, for instance, stands out as a brilliant illustration of how these compact green spaces can rejuvenate an urban setting, turning once-neglected spaces into community assets. 

How to select plants for residential spaces?

Our design team selects resilient, low-maintenance plant species that suit each project’s light, space, and care requirements. Our experience ensures the right plants are in the right place, creating a stunning and resilient space for you.

How do SuDS planters and rain gardens benefit local infrastructure?

SuDS planters and rain gardens help manage stormwater by capturing, filtering, and slowly releasing runoff, which prevents flooding and reduces pressure on local drainage systems. These solutions enhance resilience to heavy rain events and can be tailored to fit most urban environments.

How can urban greening improve public health?

Green spaces reduce stress and improve air quality. Products such as parklets and pocket parks help promote physical activity and active travel, making them valuable solutions for community health initiatives.

How can green spaces improve community engagement?

SuDS can help bring communities together. This is especially the case if the community is involved in the design or ongoing maintenance of a space. It’s essential to connect with communities meaningfully, allowing them to express their needs and view changes as opportunities.

Can we assist with planning permissions and compliance?

We sure can. Our team is experienced in collaborating with councils to ensure installations meet local guidelines and requirements. We can also help you with any new funding opportunities that you are interested in.